You might be familiar with English manufacturer Vertu’s previous smartphone efforts, whose price tags routinely do their best to redefine "high-end." However, while the Signature Touch might share the lofty cost of its predecessors, this time around it also packs top shelf specs to match smartphone heavyweights like HTC’s One (M8) or Samsung’s Galaxy S5.

The biggest flaw on the spec sheet is the skimpy 2275 mAh battery, which given the device’s high-end internals, is unlikely to provide great battery life. In terms of optics, the handset features 13 MP rear and 2.1 MP front cameras, complete with Hasselblad image tuning.

Vertu is touting the Signature Touch as a "one world phone," packing in a wide range of cellular bands including 4G/LTE in an effort to ensure good call quality wherever the user travels. The company has also included stereo Bang and Olufsen speakers on the device, which runs on Android 4.4 KitKat and features NFC and wireless charging tech. The smartphone is just a touch heavier than most leading devices, weighing in at 192 g (0.42 lb) and measuring 10.6 mm (0.42 in) thick.

It’s important to note that the Signature Touch’s appeal goes beyond its solid specs. The handset is handcrafted from high-quality materials including brushed and polished grade 5 titanium and hand-stitched calf leather. The smartphone’s 4.7-inch panel is also protected by a 118 carat, 5.1-inch piece of solid sapphire crystal, which the company claims can only be scratched by diamonds. The crystal covering features a multi-layer coating to reduce reflections.

The smartphone is designed to have a "consciously masculine" style and will be available in eight colors. Vertu seems to have had a bit of fun when naming the color/build variations, with monikers including Seaspray Lizard, Pure Navy Lizard and our personal favorite – Jet Alligator.

Aside from the high-end specs and build, the company is offering a range of other services with its new handset, including a Life app that provides free access to invitation-only events and exclusive Members’ Clubs around the world, and Certainty – a suite of security features that includes encrypted calls and text messages.

Lastly, the company includes a year of its Concierge service, giving the customer round-the-clock access to a team of "lifestyle assistants" via voice call, email or instant messaging.

As you might expect, all that luxury comes with a pretty hefty price tag. The Signature Touch start at £6,750 (US$11,312), and it will be available to purchase in Vertu stores beginning this month.

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